Allowing the appeal, Immigration Judge Madhu Gurung-Thapa said: "I have no reason to doubt the sponsor's evidence. I am satisfied the appellant does have incentives to return to Ukraine on account of her family and social and economic ties.

"I am satisfied the appellant was genuinely seeking a visa as a visitor for the stated period and that she has the intention to leave the UK when the visa expires."

She also awarded the £140 appeal fee, to be paid by the Home Office.

She said: "I have decided to make a whole fee award of £140 because the respondent's decision was not in accordance with the law."

Mr Peet said: "The Home Office has five days to lodge an appeal. I don't think it will after the ruling.

"The family and friends just can't wait to meet Nataliya for the first time. I want to show her the Leicestershire countryside and other sites in Britain during her stay, which will last a few months."

A UK Border Agency spokesperson said: "All visa applications are considered in line with immigration rules and based on the evidence available at the time a decision is made.

"Further evidence was supplied by Ms Zhukovksa's sponsor at the appeal hearing which was accepted by the immigration judge."